STRENGTH IN DEPTH

Despite poor results recently, Regis Le Bris is glad that he has used this strange period to field some of the fringe players and see what they're all about, as well as resting some of the key squad members...

JOE ANDERSON IMPRESSIVE

“This period was useful because it gave some opportunities to players who were not really involved at the beginning of the season. They showed good qualities and it shows that they were connected and trained properly and understood the way we wanted to play. It was positive for Joe.”

STRANGE SITUATION

“We earned this possibility so I am proud of the team, proud of the squad. It is a big achievement. With the core of the squad we knew before that it was really important to go through this phase into the play-offs with as many players as possible available and fit. This period was a little bit unusual and a little bit strange but it was a good opportunity for us to refresh our players."

RAMP THINGS UP NOW

"Now, in these two last games, with one game a week, I think we will have a different dynamic. It won’t be like a play-off game but it will probably be closer to the right dynamic.”

WEAKENED LINEUPS

“I think so far we have respected the league and even with a different side, we played at 100% of our capacity. I think it is the case for many teams in this league, with 46 games you cannot start with the same starting 11. You have to manage the squad and that will be the case at Oxford.”

USEFUL PERIOD

“It has been very useful because you can’t replace a competitive game. With 46, you have many opportunities to challenge your players. They can show their qualities and the way they can help the team. Many experiences - some good, some maybe negative or emotional sometimes, and both are useful. At the end we will have the best knowledge of the game model and the best knowledge of all the players available, how they can contribute to the output of the squad and we will be ready.”